Cold and flu remedies: What actually works?

There’s no denying it: cold and flu season is upon us, so it’s time to stock up the bathroom cabinets in preparation. Our pharmacist, Rita, gives the low-down on the five most reliable products for a cold and flu quick-fix.

Cold or flu?

Yes, there is a difference and, yes, it does matter. Although symptoms can be similar (think sore throat, a blocked or runny nose, sneezing, coughing and headaches), the telltale signs of flu usually come on much more quickly than a cold and are generally more severe.

Flu symptoms include a sudden fever (30-40°C), muscle aches and pains, sweating, exhaustion, a dry cough and excessive sneezing. It’s also common for people suffering from flu to feel incapable of getting out of bed or going about their daily routine.

What can you do?

“Good hygiene practices such as using tissues to cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, washing your hands more often and using a hand gel during the cold and flu will help to slow the spread of cold and viruses,” says Rita. “These are simple and effective ways to help protect yourself and others from infections.”

While there is no cure for a cold, you can look after yourself at home by resting up, drinking plenty of fluids and eating healthily.

5 products to stock up on

Aside from painkillers, Rita recommends the following remedies to help fight cold & flu.

1. ColdZyme (RRP £9.99)

This oral spray forms a protective active enzyme barrier on the mucous membrane (a moist tissue that protects against infection) in your throat, making it more difficult for the cold virus to cause illness. ColdZyme can help shorten the duration of a cold by acting on the cold virus itself rather than just helping to relieve symptoms.

2. Vicks First Defence (RRP £6.49)

Targeting viruses before symptoms worsen, this nasal spray is designed to be used at the earliest sign of a cold. Acting at the back of the nose, the spraytraps, inactivates and helps your body naturally remove the cold virus before it gets a chance to fully develop.

3. Sterimar ‘Stop & Protect’ Cold and Sinus Relief (RRP £6.99)

Made for very blocked noses and using natural ingredients, Stop & Protect nasal spray helps relieve symptoms of a cold, rhinitis or sinusitis. It also prevents further developments and attacks by forming a protective film on the nasal mucous membrane.

4. Boots Dual Defence Nasal Spray (RRP £6.99)

Containing Carragelose – a polymer containing unique anti-viral properties – use this spray at the first sign of cold symptoms to help shorten the duration and severity of colds and flu.

5. Flu Vaccine (RRP £12.99. Free for those who are pregnant or aged 65+)

You are eligible for a free flu vaccination if you are pregnant, aged 65 and over or have certain medical conditions, including (but not necessarily limited to):

Chronic lung disease, including asthma.

Chronic kidney, liver, heart or neurological diseases.

Diabetes.

HIV infection.

An underactive immune system, either due to disease or treatment.

Boots UK is encouraging more pregnant women to get vaccinated, as research shows that 56% of mums-to-be did not have one last year, despite the benefits it brings to both mother and baby. Ask your GP or local pharmacist for more information.